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King of Cool

The way Ron Robinson takes gleeful pleasure in presenting his inventory, it would be virtually impossible to argue that a Missoni throw or a typomatrix Qloqtwo clock from his home and lifestyle boutique StylObjects isn’t an absolutely imperative purchase. But selling great style is nothing new to this iconic vendor. Since 1978, when he opened up his first men’s casual sportswear store at Fred Segal Melrose, the fashion tastes of the former Fred Segal vice president have influenced Angelenos hungry for the latest looks and beauty products. In 1989, he transformed the space formerly home to his candy store, Treat at Fred Segal Melrose, into the first StylObjects, a dedicated environment for his lifestyle products­—making it the go-to location for unique gifts and home design elements.

In Robinson’s newest StylObjects location at Fred Segal Santa Monica, he displays the same items as those in his flagship store, but the 2,000-square-foot space—which Robinson calls “beach modern” with its soft green glass and textured gray brick—allows each object more room to breathe. From limited-edition coffee-table books such as The Guitar Collection to Philippe Starck-designed Zikmu Speakers, any customer would be hard-pressed not to find something that fits his or her sensibility.

“What makes us different from other stores is our curated selection,” says Robinson. “We create the essence of the Southern California lifestyle. This is adult candy.”